On their third full-length release,
Lost and Safe
,
the Books
show that they are back stronger than ever and from the beginning are subtly pushing new forms. Still present in
' song structures are string work and found sounds, but the inclusion of vocals from the bandmembers themselves gives
a depth that was only hinted at on
Thought for Food
and
Lemon of Pink
. The use of more vocals is never overbearing and works well with the other elements of speech, at times completing sentences or thoughts of particular samples -- the lyrics are printed with the sample text included as well. Rhythms and textures of strings and other various instruments seem to complement the found sounds and samples to a wonderfully haunting effect, as on
"It Never Changes to Stop,"
"An Animated Description of Mr. Maps,"
"Venice."
The Books
manipulate sound elements that are found or created by their string playing, which can be jarring at times, as on
"Be Good to Them Always."
is subtle and dramatic throughout, as
use all of their musical resources to create an album that sounds like the members of a modern
Gastr del Sol
might have discovered computers and sounds deep in the woods or in the cracks of high-tech buildings, and incorporated these elements in their music-making. From the songwriting to the production to the performance, the whole package that
present with
works wonderfully and makes for a very rewarding listen. ~ David Serra